As we wrap up 2011 and begin to look towards 2012, one area we must consider is our marketing plans. SEO (search engine optimization) has long been an integral part of online marketing and each year brings new challenges to the world of online advertising. Taking some time to explore some of the most popular trends for 2012 in terms of SEO marketing can help us plan a better and more interesting advertising program for the upcoming year.
Image via Wikipedia
1. Mobile Marketing: Mobile marketing has been a marketing buzz word for the past several years, but 2012 will see an even larger ramp up of mobile marketing. Remember that mobile technology like smartphones and tablets will view your site differently than a traditional computer. Because of this, you must put a mobile marketing plan in place, one that is specially designed to meet the needs of mobile marketing. In addition to mirror sites, you may want to consider mapping, integrated apps, social media integration, and easy navigation to take advantage of the mobile market.
2. Content: The power of content has seen a decline over the past few years, but that decline has ended. In fact, with the addition of things like Google’s “freshness” update, it is more important than ever before that your website contain content that is highly interesting and relevant, absolutely unique and regularly updated. Consider adding a news section or blog to your website if you haven’t already done so. It is a good idea to work with a professional content developer to make sure your content is as effective as possible. Optimization, keyword research, density, and relevancy are just as a few of the areas that should be considered when developing a content program.
3. Social Media Integration: Again, the last few years have seen an increase in social media integration in terms of online marketing and 2012 will all but require smart online entrepreneurs to further integrate their social media efforts. Don’t forget about Google+ — it is likely to play a large role in social media visibility throughout 2012. Facebook still reigns supreme but LinkedIn, Commonfig, and YouTube are quickly gaining ground.
Image Courtesy of Flickr.com
Getting your marketing program into high gear for 2012 doesn’t meaning changing your advertising plan completely. Instead, it simply means tweaking what you already do to be more effective during the coming year. Mobile marketing techniques, fresh content and social media integration should all be included in your plan.